The Three Greatest Moments In Best Medication For ADHD History
The Three Greatest Moments In Best Medication For ADHD History
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Best Medication For ADHD
Most teenagers and children who are taking ADHD medication find they concentrate better, are less impulsive, feel more calm and are able to get on with their schoolwork. Some sufferers may experience a slowdown in their growth, or an increase in blood pressure or heart rate when taking these medications.
There are a variety of medications such as tablets, liquids, patches, and capsules (such as Daytrana). The most frequently used stimulant is methylphenidate (Adderall). It is available in three forms: immediate-release extended-release, and sustained-release.
Stimulants
One of the most effective medications for ADHD is a class of drugs known as stimulants. These drugs enhance focus and attention by affecting neurotransmitters, especially norepinephrine and dopamine. These are the chemicals that regulate the brain's pre-frontal cortex region, which is often described as the brain's "secretary" because it aids in the planning and organization abilities.
Stimulants come in short and long-acting doses. The short-acting medicines have a peak effect in 30 to 45 minutes and should be taken three or twice times per day. These include methylphenidates, such as Ritalin and Concerta amphetamines such as Adderall and Dexedrine. Amphetamines can be stronger and last longer than methylphenidates but both work in the same way to increase attention and focus. There are extended-release versions of certain stimulant medications. These can be a better option because they last up to 12 hours and are usually taken every day. Some of these medications are powders that you mix with liquids to make a beverage, while others are pills.
Finding the right medicine can take a bit of time. Your doctor will observe how you respond to the various types of medications and will adjust the dosage as needed. The use of medicines should be a part more info of a complete treatment plan that includes a combination of therapy and support.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take a little longer to kick in however they can make you feel more in control and increase your ability to concentrate, impulsivity and focus. These medications don't affect norepinephrine or dopamine the same way stimulants do. They can therefore be employed for a longer duration. They also have less side effects, such as constipation, heartburn, and decreased sexual drive. The first of these medications to be approved by the FDA to treat ADHD is called Strattera which is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Your doctor could prescribe additional medications from this group such as Guanfacine (Intuniv) and clonidine (Kapvay).
Non-stimulant antidepressants that are off-label can also be prescribed to treat ADHD. These are older medications within the tricyclic antidepressant family, like Tofranil (imipramine). Doctors will only recommend these medications if stimulants and other non-stimulants don't work or cause too many side consequences.
Your doctor may also prescribe Atomoxetine (Prozac) or viloxazine (Risperdal). These drugs don't have an immediate impact but they may help reduce impulsivity over time and improve concentration. These medications belong to a different class of drugs from the others and can cause negative side effects, such as shaky hands or headache. Your doctor may also suggest the use of a small dose of an antidepressant known as bupropion (Wellbutrin), which is not a FDA-approved treatment for ADHD but works well to increase concentration and reduce impulsivity. It may cause some uncomfortable but usually not severe side effects, including hearing ringing or changes in vision.